SOUTH LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
Private Pontoon Passage: Six Hours on Lake Tahoe’s Sapphire Edge
A six-hour private charter aboard a 27ft pontoon with a USCG-certified captain, visiting Emerald Bay, Fannette Island and other Lake Tahoe highlights—this guide outlines what to expect and how to prepare.
Private Pontoon Passage: Six Hours on Lake Tahoe’s Sapphire Edge.
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Lake Tahoe in the most exclusive way possible: a private, six-hour charter that puts your group aboard a 27‑foot pontoon with a USCG‑certified captain and the flexibility to visit Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm, Fannette Island, DL Bliss State Park and other shoreline highlights.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Emerald Bay and Fannette Island
The charter takes you to Lake Tahoe’s signature stops — Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island — with time to sightsee, photograph and, weather permitting, customize your route.
Private 27‑ft pontoon with a USCG captain
You’ll be aboard a 27‑foot pontoon for up to 13 passengers plus the captain; all charters are led by a USCG‑certified captain and fuel costs are included in the package.
Customizable, private experience
This is a private charter for your party only, with the captain included for groups of six or fewer and a flexible itinerary that can be adapted based on time and weather.
What the day feels like
What the six hours feel like
Over six hours on the lake you move from the marina into open water, easing into long views of granite shoreline and alpine forests as the captain guides you to Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm and other scenic points; the pace is private and unhurried, with opportunities to swim, photograph and picnic from the boat where permitted.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private charter suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Charters last six hours and begin and end at Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe; guests should arrive at the marina at least 30 minutes before the charter and be at the boat 20 minutes prior—late arrival will shorten your time on the lake.
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a jacket or sweatshirt, a camera, and a towel and swimsuit if you plan to swim; a cooler/refrigerator is provided and water is provided by the operator.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks but do not bring glass, red wine or overly messy foods; gratuity for the captain is not included and is appreciated.
You will be aboard a 27‑ft pontoon that can accommodate up to 13 people plus the captain; fuel costs are included in the charter price.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the charter?
Charters are six hours in length.
Where does the trip start and end?
All charters start and end at the Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe, CA.
Is a captain included?
For parties of six or fewer, the captain is included in the charter cost; for parties over six, USCG regulations classify the trip as a Bareboat Charter and the captain must be paid separately.
How many people can fit on the boat?
The private charter can accommodate up to 13 people plus the captain; each guest, regardless of age, counts as a passenger.
What should I bring and what is provided?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a jacket or sweatshirt, a camera, and a towel and swimsuit if you plan to swim; water and a cooler/refrigerator are provided—do not bring glass, red wine or overly messy foods.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed on the charters.
Will fuel and captain gratuity be covered?
Fuel costs are included in the charter price; gratuity for the captain is not included and is appreciated.